By Darian Leiber and Matthias Marburg
“It’s a special moment, the last chance to make my dream and our dream come true” – Lionel Messi (35/no World Cup title yet) before the tournament.
Argentina wins the round of 16 against Australia 2-1 with its superstar. This places the South Americans in the last eight.
“La Pulga” himself takes the team one step closer to the big goal of the “World Cup” in its 1000th competitive game! Now he gets his 1001st night: Holland is now waiting in the quarter-finals.
With his strong left foot, Messi makes it 1-0 for Argentina Photo: Petr David Josek/AP
- Minute: After an Argentina free kick, the South Americans remain in possession. Mac Allister fits into the penalty area from the half-right. Otamendi clap for Messi. The captain pulls away immediately, hitting the corner through Souttar’s legs.
Messi makes it 1-0, the stadium trembles, a whole nation celebrates! He dizzily dribbles the Australians, plays dangerous passes and then shoots the important lead.
Four Champions League victories, one Copa America, seven Ballon d’Ors – but what he still lacks in his gigantic collection of titles: the golden World Cup trophy.
35 minutes: Lionel Messi (right) put Argentina in the lead Photo: CARL RECINE/REUTERS
His goal against Australia is his first ever in a World Cup knockout round. His ninth overall on the big stage!
Messi has overtaken the late Argentina legend Diego Armando Maradona († 80) (eight goals). Incidentally, he became world champion in 1990 – 32 years later Messi wants to bring the trophy back into the country.
A minute before the lead, Messi sends a “hello wake up signal” to his colleagues, who start the game sleepy. The PSG star rudely shoves Behich away in a tackle, earning a glare from the Australia midfielder.
Julian Alvarez punishes a mistake by Australia goalkeeper Mathew Ryan and scores to make it 2-0 Photo: Petr David Josek/AP
89 seconds later he takes the lead!
The numerous Argentina fans in the stadium sing: “Ahora Nos Volvimos a Ilusionar.” Means: “Now we’re dreaming again!”
- Minute: Alvarez and de Paul put Australia keeper Ryan under pressure. He decides to dribble on the five. Ryan can still get past de Paul – but not Alvarez. The Man City striker makes it 2-0.
Hope for Australia: Craig Goodwin scores the goal Photo: PAUL CHILDS/REUTERS
Goodwin makes the game exciting again (77′), but Argentina saves the narrow lead over time.